### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek word **phantázō**, represented by `{{G5324}}`, means to make apparent or to appear, and is used as a noun for a **spectacle** or **sight**. It appears only **1 time** across **1 unique verse** in the Bible, making its meaning highly specific to its single context. The term denotes a visual event that is significant enough to be considered a spectacle.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The sole biblical use of `{{G5324}}` is found in [[Hebrews 12:21]], which recounts Moses' profound reaction to a divine manifestation. In this verse, the author states, "And so **terrible** was the **sight**, that **Moses** said, I exceedingly fear and quake" [[Hebrews 12:21]]. The word is used here to convey the overwhelming and formidable nature of what was witnessed, an appearance so intense that it elicited a response of extreme terror from Moses.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several related words in the immediate context clarify the meaning of `{{G5324}}` by describing the nature of the event and the reaction to it:
* `{{G5398}}` **phoberós** (terrible): This adjective directly modifies the **sight**, defining it as **frightful** and **formidable**. Its use highlights the terrifying quality of the spectacle [[Hebrews 12:21]].
* `{{G1630}}` **ékphobos** (exceedingly fear): This term, meaning to be "frightened out of one's wits," is part of Moses' verbal reaction, showing the deep fear the **sight** produced [[Hebrews 12:21]].
* `{{G1790}}` **éntromos** (quake): Describing a state of being **terrified**, this word is paired with fear to show Moses' physical and emotional response of trembling before the spectacle he witnessed [[Hebrews 12:21]].
### Theological Significance
The theological weight of `{{G5324}}` is derived entirely from its singular, powerful context.
* **Awe-Inspiring Manifestation:** The word is used to describe a divine appearance so powerful that it causes the prophet Moses `{{G3475}}` to be overcome with fear. This emphasizes the awesome and unapproachable nature of God's presence under the Old Covenant.
* **The Fear of God's Holiness:** The "terrible sight" was not merely a visual display but a **spectacle** that communicated the gravity of God's holiness, leading to a response of being "sore afraid" [[Mark 9:6]].
* **A Formidable Encounter:** Paired with **phoberós** `{{G5398}}`, the term underscores that certain encounters with God are objectively **fearful** and **terrible**, as it is a "fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God" [[Hebrews 10:31]].
### Summary
In summary, `{{G5324}}` is a precise term used to define more than just a simple vision; it describes a **spectacle** of immense and terrifying power. Its entire biblical meaning is contained within its single use in [[Hebrews 12:21]], where it captures the formidable quality of a divine manifestation that made Moses **exceedingly fear** `{{G1630}}` and **quake** `{{G1790}}`. The word powerfully illustrates the overwhelming awe associated with encountering the presence of God.
TRV